5 Common Heat Pump Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Heat pumps have become increasingly popular as energy-efficient alternatives to traditional heating and cooling systems. Whether you're considering a heat pump installation or already have a heat pump in your home, avoiding common mistakes can save you money and headaches. This guide explores five common heat pump mistakes and provides practical solutions to help you get the most from your investment.

 

1. Incorrect Sizing

One of the most critical mistakes homeowners make is installing an improperly sized heat pump. Unlike traditional heating systems, where oversizing might seem like a good idea for extra heating or cooling power, a heat pump operates most efficiently when precisely matched to the space it serves.

An oversized heat pump will short cycle—turning on and off frequently—which increases wear and tear, wastes energy and provides poor humidity control. Conversely, an undersized unit will run continuously, struggling to reach desired temperatures while consuming excessive electricity and increasing your overall heat pump cost over time. Read more on how to size your heat pump correctly. 

 

2. Neglecting Regular Heat Pump Maintenance

Heat pumps are remarkably reliable, but this dependability often leads homeowners to overlook necessary heat pump maintenance and heat pump servicing.

Dust and debris accumulation on coils, clogged filters and unchecked refrigerant levels can significantly reduce efficiency. In fact, research shows that poorly maintained heat pumps can use up to 25% more energy than well-maintained systems, dramatically increasing your heat pump cost over its lifetime.

 

3. Poor Management

Many homeowners treat heatpumps the same way they would with conventional heating systems, which can lead to inefficient operation of a heat pump.

Frequently adjusting temperatures or setting it too high can force the heat pump into "emergency heat" mode, which typically relies on electric resistance heating that consumes significantly more energy and increases your heat pump cost in terms of monthly power bills.

 

4. Blocking Airflow 

Proper airflow is essential for heat pump operation, yet many homeowners inadvertently restrict it after heat pump installation.

Outdoor units placed too close to walls, fences, or vegetation can't efficiently exchange heat with the surrounding air. Similarly, blocked indoor vents or returns prevent proper air circulation throughout your home, forcing a heat pump to work harder and increasing energy consumption.

 

5. DIY Repairs 

While basic heat pump maintenance like filter changes can be handled by homeowners, attempting complex repairs can lead to costly damage and potentially void warranties on a heat pump.

Heat pumps are sophisticated systems with intricate electrical components, specialised refrigerant requirements and precise calibration needs. Amateur repairs often cause more harm than good, leading to higher heat pump servicing costs in the long run.

 

Conclusion

A heat pump represents a significant investment in your home's comfort and energy efficiency. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can maximise performance, extend your system's lifespan and enjoy the full benefits of this environmentally friendly technology.

Remember the additional cost of proper heat pump installation, regular heat pump maintenance and professional heat pump servicing when needed will be a long-term pay off through lower power bills and fewer repairs over your heat pump's lifetime.

Looking to speak to a professional and enquire about an installation or heat pump repair, contact us today!